Cost of Living in De Witt County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How De Witt County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
De Witt County ranks #1,807 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in De Witt County, Illinois
De Witt renters stretch tight budgets
De Witt County's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio signals housing affordability stress compared to the national average, with renters spending a notably higher share of income on shelter. At $857 per month, the median rent consumes substantial resources from the county's $64,802 median household income—$10,000 below the national median.
De Witt struggles with state averages
De Witt's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Illinois's 14.7% state average, placing it among the state's less affordable counties. While the median rent of $857 is only slightly above the state average of $837, the combination of lower local income and higher relative costs creates affordability pressure.
Higher costs than similar rural counties
De Witt's $857 median rent stands noticeably above Crawford ($761), Cumberland ($756), and Edgar County ($757)—a $100+ gap that adds up quickly for renters. The county's affordability challenge reflects higher housing demand relative to its peer rural markets.
Income doesn't keep pace with housing costs
De Witt renters spend $857 monthly on housing from a $64,802 annual income, consuming 15.9% of earnings—well above the comfort threshold of 12-13%. Homeowners face similar pressure at $854 monthly on properties valued at $124,200, leaving limited financial flexibility for other needs.
De Witt requires budget discipline
If relocating to De Witt, expect to dedicate a substantial portion of income to housing compared to neighboring rural counties. Compare carefully to more affordable options like Crawford or Cumberland to determine if the trade-offs align with your financial priorities.
Cost of Living Advisory: De Witt County
Affordability Verdict
De Witt County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $857/month — about 15.9% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $857/month rent versus $854/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $3/month cheaper — a 0% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,600/year. With a median household income of $64,802, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in De Witt County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, De Witt County is more affordable than Logan County by roughly 7% ($857/mo vs $804/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in De Witt County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,512
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in De Witt County
Median home value is $124,200. Estimated monthly cost: $992 vs. your max of $1,512.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in De Witt County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in De Witt County?
Is De Witt County affordable?
How does De Witt County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in De Witt County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in De Witt County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in De Witt County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.